obsolete
AdjectiveSynonyms:
disused
WordNet 3.0
Adjective (1)
- no longer in use“obsolete words”Synonyms: disused
Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)
Obsolete \Ob"so*lete\, a. [L. obsoletus, p. p. of obsolescere. See Obsolescent.]
1.No longer in use; gone into disuse; disused; neglected; as, an obsolete word; an obsolete statute; -- applied chiefly to words, writings, or observances. [1913 Webster]
2.(Biol.) Not very distinct; obscure; rudimental; imperfectly developed; abortive. [1913 Webster]
Syn: Ancient; antiquated; old-fashioned; antique; old; disused; neglected. See Ancient. [1913 Webster]
Obsolete \Ob"so*lete\, v. i. To become obsolete; to go out of use. [R.] --Fitzed. Hall. [1913 Webster]
The Devil's Dictionary
OBSOLETE, adj. No longer used by the timid. Said chiefly of words. A word which some lexicographer has marked obsolete is ever thereafter an object of dread and loathing to the fool writer, but if it is a good word and has no exact modern equivalent equally good, it is good enough for the good writer. Indeed, a writer's attitude toward "obsolete" words is as true a measure of his literary ability as anything except the character of his work. A dictionary of obsolete and obsolescent words would not only be singularly rich in strong and sweet parts of speech; it would add large possessions to the vocabulary of every competent writer who might not happen to be a competent reader.